Get away from it all in Agios Nikolaos
The seaside town of Agios Nikolaos draws travelers with its coastal charm, beautified by a small lake and hilly terrain that overlooks a glistening bay. Warm summer days here are spent out on the turquoise waters that encircle Crete, sailing around in search of tiny islands, admiring the colorful architecture on the shoreline or lounging on sandy beaches, soaking up the beaming sun. When the time comes to select your Agios Nikolaos vacation rental, you'll find a range of accommodation awaits, whether you prefer luxurious villas with views of the sea or apartments within walking distance of shops and eateries.
Exploring Cretan culture in Agios Nikolaos
It may be tempting to spend every day of your Agios Nikolaos vacation by the sea, but do take some time to delve into the local history and culture, too. A visit to the Folk Art Museum in town is a great place to start, with exhibits featuring traditional Cretan textiles, coins, photographs, costumes and more. Venture just outside of town to find historic ruins and structures such as the 13th-century Panagia Kera church, where you can admire a large collection of Byzantine-era fresco paintings of religious scenes in a picturesque, white-washed building.
Out on the water in Agios Nikolaos
Vacations in Agios Nikolaos are best spent on the waterfront. Spread out on the golden, sandy beaches with a good book and watch the bobbing fishing boats, or go restaurant-hopping to sample delicious Greek and seafood dishes at the many eateries lining Lake Voulismeni. A sailing trip is a great way to enjoy the seaside and charters are available to take you out into the blue for romantic cruises as the sun sets. Why not head to the nearby island of Spinalonga, where you can explore the ruins of a Venetian fort with a fascinating past?
Year-round vacations in Agios Nikolaos
Summer draws vacationers to the island of Crete, in search of seaside respite on the shores around Agios Nikolaos. Since temperatures typically begin to warm into the 70s by April, often staying there until November, a visit in spring or fall means smaller crowds, with the same opportunities to enjoy beach days on the sand and boat trips with warm breezes. If you visit during the hottest times of the year, why not look for an Agios Nikolaos vacation rental with a pool for the kids to splash around in? The island is a year-round destination though, since even the winter months don't see extreme cold.
Agios Nikolaos for nature lovers
Located on the largest of the Greek Isles, Agios Nikolaos offers a multitude of options to enjoy time out on the water, be it the circular Lake Voulismeni, the channel out into Mirabello Bay or further beyond in the Sea of Crete. Inland, hiking opportunities abound along the elevated hills and plateaus filled with farms and windmills. For caving adventures among stalagmites and stalactites, head to Diktean Cave, said to be the birthplace of the god Zeus. Nature lovers? Agios Nikolaos vacation rentals are just a short hop from wildlife sightings at the Amazonas Animal Park, a haven for rescued species.
Transportation to and around Agios Nikolaos Town
The nearest airport is in Nikos Kazantzakis Airport (HER), located 32.2 mi (51.9 km) from the city center. If you're unable to find a flight that fits your schedule, you might consider flying into Sitia (JSH), which is 21.6 mi (34.8 km) away.